The Patch Diaries.

Pages

Saturday, January 24, 2015

This past year, I have had the pleasure of traveling to a few new places with my job. Chicago was one of them. I had the time of my life on my first business trip. It was full of late nights, very early mornings, a lot of work, amazing food, and an even better backdrop. Chi-Town has moved to the top of my Travel Wish List...and I can't wait to return!

Here's a sneak peak of some of the photos I took during my trip....many more to come!

Friday, January 23, 2015

I like chocolate. No....I love chocolate. Okay, I admit I'm a sweet tooth. I can't get enough of chocolate, or any sweet for that matter. So when I finally got my hands on the Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer, it was like love at first sight. After taking photos of the untouched product, I have been using this bronzer for about a month now, and I am absolutely impressed. The bronzer is the perfect shade -- not too brown, and not too orange. It is quite a dense formula, so be sure to start out light, then add on the color. Applying this bronzer with a stippling brush would be ideal (try the MAC 187 brush).

So if you're looking to add a little sun-kissed touch to your skin during the Winter, I'd highly suggest this Chocolate Soleil Bronzer! PLUS IT SMELLS LIKE CHOCOLATE!<3Follow me on TwitterFollow me on Instagram

Saturday, January 3, 2015

HELLO 2015!One of my New Year's resolutions was to blog more. In 2014, I tried to focus on my new job, hence the lack of posts. But I'm happy to begin fresh in 2015 with more blog posts on the things I love.I hope you all had a wonderful New Year's!For the past several months, I have been enjoying a new foundation...MAC Studio Tech Foundation (I'm in NC27). This foundation is not one to use daily, especially due to the slightly higher cost of $32. However, it is perfect for special occasions or for long-wear use.

I first discovered this foundation while at the MAC store getting suggestions for makeup for a wedding -- I was a bridesmaid and decided to do my own makeup. The lovely woman at MAC recommended the Studio Tech Foundation based on my skin type: combination. She mentioned that whenever brides come into MAC to get their makeup done, they usually use the Studio Tech Foundation on them. I took that as a good sign...it's long-wearing and looks great in photos. Studio Tech has a creamy consistency, which is great for those with semi-dry skin. I found that for me, it's best applied with a finger, then blended with a Sigma F80 brush. I would highly recommend this if you're looking into getting a new foundation :)MAC Studio Tech FoundationI hope you all have a lovely day....and an even better 2015!xoxoFollow me on Twitter or Instagram! http://www.twitter.com/thepatchdiarieshttp://www.instagram.com/thepatchdiaries

I've never done a post on my blog about my latest Instagram photos...but I figured it would be a good idea. I am constantly taking photos on my iPhone everywhere I go...even in the middle of the Naples Canals on a Kayak! My friends know that they have to wait before eating anything because I will probably want to take a picture of it :) Here are my latest Instagram photos from the past two weeks. I hope you like them!

Saturday, March 29, 2014

I can't help but pick up statement necklaces in the stores. They seem to be everywhere and on everyone...and for good reason! They always bring an unexpected pop of glam. It's a simple way to brighten up an outfit or dress it up for a night out.One of my favorite pieces is this turquoise + gold statement necklace from Nordstrom. It was about $24 and worth every penny. Turquoise brings such a beautiful color for jewelry in my opinion. I seem to always accessorize with turquoise mainly because I tend to wear a lot of black. It is a great complimentary color.This one in particular has gold-rimmed teardrop-shaped turquoise details. The turquoise has a cracked pattern, adding some extra detail. It is not only beautiful to look at, but perfect to wear. I thought that $24 was a bit much to spend on one piece, but this necklace is such good quality that it is worth it!

My other favorite statement necklace is this black and gold one from Forever 21. I actually purchased this one about a year ago. It has about a dozen different black teardrop shapes inter-connected. Each black piece has a geometric pattern that is raised. This necklace is especially great to dress up a little black dress, along with multiple black and gold midi rings. I continually grab for this beautiful piece to add some shine to my outfits. If you're experimenting with a statement necklace for the first time, I'd definitely recommend this one, or a similar black/gold one. Black and gold will always be classy and stylish.Forever 21 is always a good place to look for statement necklaces. This black one in particular was also available in a bright coral and a teal. They are inexpensive, and can be used oh so many ways.xoxo<3 KellyTwitter | Instagram

Monday, March 17, 2014

Flash lenses anyone?! I have been loving flash/mirror lenses sunglasses for months now! I'm sure you've seen my sunglasses from the beach a few months ago. I think the reflective lenses, with the shades of turquoise, blue, and green just scream sunshine. Living in California, I can't help but think about summer all year long. Yesterday it was literally 91 degrees! IT IS STILL WINTER, PEOPLE! That's what we get for being in Southern California.

Several months ago, I noticed that Forever 21 was finally getting the sunglasses with mirror lenses in stock, so I had to buy three pairs...naturally. Here are a few of the pairs that I picked out!

Those darn aisles before the cashier get me every time!! I had to pick up this cute little compact mirror. It is the perfect size....and it's hot pink!

Saturday, March 1, 2014

I was fortunate enough to attend the Professional Beauty Association's International Salon & Spa Expo only one week after going to IMATS LA! This ISSE show is only open to those that have a cosmetology license, esthetician license, own/operate a salon, etc....so it's an exclusive show, but there are about 30,000 attendees with hundreds and hundreds of booths.

It is by far the best beauty/hair show that I have attended. Honestly, IMATS is no comparison to this huge show.Not only do they have dozens upon dozens of booths with hair products, hot tools, nail polish, facial products, and makeup items....it is bombarded by so many presentations and demonstrations. Literally, you will walk down an isle of about 40 different brands' booths, and you will see 10 different people getting their hair cut and styled by professionals. It is an unbelievable experience...not just a place to shop.Even if you just walk around the different expo halls, you will be handed beautiful large bags from different brands. These reusable bags were not only cute...they usually had tons of samples inside!! (I didn't figure that out until I got home) I kind of wish I grabbed each bag that was offered. Next time!

The products that are there are extremely inexpensive. Most (if not all) brands give huge discounts for the expo attendees...so I definitely took advantage of attending! I mean...Essie nail polish was 6 for $20. And if you're familiar with the store called Cosmoprof (only licensed cosmetologists may purchase from that store)...they have a HUGE section of the Expo with products for SO CHEAP. I mean OPI nail polish was $2.50! I would highly encourage any beauty lover to attend ISSE if they get a chance!Here are some of the photos I was able to capture at the expo....

Have you ever been to ISSE before? Let me know if you'd like me to review any of the products in my ISSE Haul!<3 KellyTwitter | Instagram | Bloglovin